Young Fire Cadets Celebrate Graduation After a Year of Courage, Teamwork and Community Service

16th July 202616th July 2026 Francesca Lilleystone 0 Comments Community, Hornchurch, LFB, London Fire Brigade Fire Cadets min read

Fourteen young people have proudly graduated from the London Fire Brigade’s Fire Cadets programme at Hornchurch Fire Station after a year of learning life-saving skills, building confidence and giving back to their community.

On Tuesday 15 July, the 14 cadets celebrated their achievements at a special pass out parade attended by the Mayor of Havering, invited guests and representatives from the Romford Lions.

Guests were treated to an impressive live firefighting demonstration as the cadets showcased the skills they had developed over the past year. The realistic exercise saw the young firefighters rescue casualties from a burning tower using ladders, hoses and specialist firefighting equipment, demonstrating the teamwork and confidence they have gained during the programme.

Throughout their time with the Havering Fire Cadet Unit, the young people have learned essential firefighting techniques, including the safe use of ladders, hoses and the equipment carried on a fire engine. Alongside these practical skills, they have also developed invaluable personal qualities such as teamwork, leadership, problem-solving and self-confidence.

The cadets have also made a significant contribution to the local community through a series of social action projects.

During the Christmas period, they hosted a festive tea party for members of Age UK Havering, where guests enjoyed bingo, received home fire safety advice and had the opportunity to explore a fire engine. They also supported the Romford Lions with their annual Christmas charity collection.

Earlier this year, in March, the cadets teamed up with Hornchurch Blue Watch to organise a charity car wash in aid of The Fire Fighters Charity, raising an impressive £900 thanks to the generosity of local residents.

Station Officer Fire Cadet Hollie Hewitt reflected on her own journey through the programme.

“I’ve been a cadet for nearly five years, and it’s been the best thing I’ve ever done. I joined as a shy 13-year-old who was scared of ladders, and now I’m a Station Officer, confident enough to take on new challenges and support others to do the same. Cadets has given me valuable skills, amazing opportunities, and friendships that will last a lifetime.”

The Fire Cadets programme is completely free and is open to young people aged 13 to 17. It is run by dedicated community volunteers who generously give up one evening each week to help inspire and support the next generation.

Anyone interested in becoming a Fire Cadet or volunteering as a Cadet Instructor can apply through the London Fire Brigade.

The graduation marked the end of a remarkable year for the young cadets, celebrating not only the firefighting skills they have learned, but also the confidence, resilience and community spirit they have developed along the way.